Photography can play a powerful role in raising public awareness about environmental conservation and biodiversity protection by capturing both the beauty of nature and the damaging effects of pollution, Dhaka Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam said on Thursday.
She made the remarks while addressing the closing and prize distribution ceremony of the national environmental photography competition and exhibition titled ‘Waves of Life’ at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy at 3pm.
The event, organised by Waterkeepers Bangladesh, Youth for Ocean and Mission Green Bangladesh, recognised nine photographers across three categories: Marine Biodiversity, Aquatic Life, Livelihood and Coastal Pollution, and Energy and Environment.
Speaking as chief guest, Farida, also the district magistrate, said photography could influence people’s thinking and encourage a greater sense of responsibility towards protecting the environment.
She said a photograph could communicate the harsh realities of environmental pollution more effectively than lengthy speeches, helping people understand the importance of conservation.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s rich natural resources, Farida said the Bay of Bengal, coastal areas, rivers and wetlands were vital not only for maintaining ecological balance but also for ensuring food security, supporting the economy and sustaining livelihoods.
However, she warned that plastic and waste pollution, unplanned resource extraction and climate change were increasingly threatening these ecosystems.
She stressed that environmental conservation was not the government’s responsibility alone, but required coordinated efforts from the state, society and individual citizens.
Government initiatives must be supported by greater public awareness and active participation to address environmental challenges, she said.
Farida said environmental photography could help shape public opinion by portraying natural beauty, biodiversity, people’s struggles for survival and the consequences of pollution.
Calling on young people to take a more active role, she urged them to use their creativity, talents and technological skills to support environmental protection.
She stressed the importance of identifying solutions alongside highlighting environmental problems and communicating those solutions across society.
Collaboration among young photographers, environmental activists and the media could strengthen conservation efforts, she added.
Referring to initiatives undertaken by the Dhaka district administration, Farida said priority was being given to cleanliness, waste management, afforestation and environmental awareness.
She urged citizens to reduce plastic use, avoid indiscriminate waste disposal, prevent pollution of rivers and wetlands and participate in tree plantation activities.
Farida said initiatives such as ‘Waves of Life’ should go beyond photography competitions and help build a collective commitment to environmental protection.
She emphasised that balancing development with conservation, preventing river and marine pollution and protecting biodiversity were essential to securing a safe and liveable planet for future generations.
